What happened
This report summarizes several serious occurrences involving civil aircraft:
- Cessna 1/7/02: An airprox occurred at Roma Urbe airport between a Cessna 182 (I-LUPP) and a BN-2P (I-LACO). The Cessna 182 entered the controlled zone without prior contact with the tower and failed to report its entry point. The two aircraft ended up in a perpendicular configuration at close proximity, necessitating an immediate evasive maneuver by the I-LACO.
- Fuji 1/8/02: During a transfer flight near Caorle, a Fuji FA-200-160 (D-ELHR) experienced an engine failure. The pilot performed an emergency landing on a beach, resulting in minor damage to the aircraft and impact with parked bicycles and umbrellas. Three persons were on board and remained uninjured.
- Fokker 1/9/02: During takeoff from Bratislava, a Fokker F.27 (I-SIXA) experienced an automatic propeller feathering and engine shutdown on the right engine. The takeoff was aborted, and the crew returned to the parking area.
- Socata 1/10/02: While landing at Bari Palese, a Socata TB 9 (I-IAEU) veered off the runway. The student pilot attempted to correct a wing lift by turning right, which caused the aircraft to yaw left and exit the runway, striking a runway light.
- Short 1/11/02: During a parachute jump operation near Padova, the main door of a Short SC7 (VH-WGG) detached and fell into a populated area. An instructor on board was also displaced from the door but landed safely using a parachute.
The investigation
The ANSV examined the technical components, flight logs, and meteorological conditions for each event. For the Fuji FA-200-160, investigators inspected the fuel system and engine components. For the Fokker F.27, the investigation focused on the engine's electrical and mechanical systems. The investigation into the Short SC7 involved reviewing the procedures used during the jump sequence.
Findings
- The engine failure in the Fuji FA-200-160 was caused by a near-complete blockage of the left wing tank vent pipe due to a wasp nest, which created negative pressure and restricted fuel flow.
- The Fokker F.27 engine shutdown was attributed to a malfunction of the Low Torque Switch on the right engine.
- The airprox involving the Cessna 182 was caused by the pilot's failure to follow air traffic regulations regarding communication and entry procedures.
- The Short SC7 door detachment resulted from an incorrect closing maneuver where the instructor attempted to close the door while the support latches were still retracted.